Biography

Born and raised near Buckhannon, West Virginia, I was encouraged to believe that love is the food for all who wish to grow, family is the foundation for all who aspire to be, and music is the medicine for all who desire to express their hearts. This is the philosophy that has driven me to pursue my dream to share my music with the world as a country music entertainer.

When I was very young, I would spend countless, summer evenings by fire light, surrounded by my parents, my brother, aunts, uncles and cousins, singing to the sounds of guitars, banjos and mandolins. I will never forget how powerful the music was on those hot nights. It was almost like a bonding agent among my family members, strumming our hearts, stirring our emotions, and warming our souls. The more we sang together, the more we embraced each other. For this reason, I continue to rely on my familys love and support to guide me as I write and perform, even though today we are separated by many miles.

By age five, I was also performing for the congregation at my church on Sunday mornings, and at age 13, I was singing with my cousins band at local festivals, weddings and other social events. The stage immediately befriended me and put me at ease, permitting me to develop my own style of writing and performing that would inevitably lead me to Nashville in search of my life long dream. Growing up I listened to different genres, but I always came back to country. There was just something about it. Over the course of my years growing up, I was inspired by many incredible artists. Some of my influences are: Patsy Cline, Faith Hill, Reba McIntire, Shania Twain, Martina McBride, and many others. All of these artists have influenced me, and have helped shape me into who I am today.

Prior to my move to Tennessee in 2002, I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in both Dance and Psychology from West Virginia University. While in college, I took voice lessons and acting classes, and I was a member of the Orchesis Dance Ensemble and Mountain State Jazz Ensemble. It was during this time that I started writing my own music and choreographing dance routines for state fairs, festivals and talent shows where I was invited to perform.

Having experienced great success with my music at various state-sponsored events, I decided to record my first CD at a local studio-Lone Wolf Records. The album titled, "All I Want", was recorded in 2000, and was composed of fourteen original tracks. My first release, Hero, reached number one on Indie Tracker, and my follow-up single, Caught Me Lookin, climbed to number one on Inside Country. My third release, All I Want, reached number three on the IndieWorld chart, and "Chuga Choo Choo reached number one on the IndieWorld chart in 2002.

On June 17, 2001, I was named New Female Vocalist of the Year at the Golden Music Awards in Nashville. During this time, I also maintained my role as owner and operator of Kellys Academy of Dance, in my hometown, where I taught Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Tap, Cheerleading, and Gymnastics. I also hosted my own local Country/Gospel TV show which aired in Buckhannon, WV. Hosting and performing on my own show not only taught me how to perform, but it taught me how to speak comfortably in front of a camera.

While I truly loved being a dance instructor, and having my own TV show, I realized that if I really intended to pursue a career as a country music artist, I would have to make a conscious decision to move, not only whole-heartedly, but also geographically, toward it. Only in Nashville could I immerse myself in the country music industry, and go after the passion that exudes me-MUSIC! I believe that if you have a strong drive, and you are really passionate about your dreams, things will happen for you. The key is to believe in yourself and to have faith.

Upon arriving to Nashville, in a bright yellow car with two cats, I landed a job coaching gymnastics in Franklin, TN. I taught gymnastics for three years and also met many people in the music business working at the gym. During this time I felt I needed to hone my craft as a songwriter, singer, and musician. So I enrolled in guitar lessons, took vocal lessons with Mandy Barnett, and also dance classes-Hip Hop, to help me be a better performer. I also attended songwriter workshops, seminars, and artist workshops affiliated with NSAI and BMI.

Throughout this time I have seen how I have grown as an artist, songwriter, entertainer, and as a person. I am still growing and learning. I am hungry to learn all I can about the music industry and to become the best artist I can be. I have had many fortunate opportunities (see discography for specifics). I am currently represented by Wildfire Publicity and also I am working non-exclusively with Sharon Smith Talent Agency in Nashville on acting, commercials, etc.

My new album titled You Said Youd Call Me was released in summer 2005. This album features songs that I wrote, many of which are from real life experiences. My first album is dedicated to all the people I have lost in my life, and to all the troops who have died fighting for our country. The song "If I Were Rain" is a song dedication to the troops, and is also being used in the 9/11 documentary, Beyond 911. I traveled May-October 2005- promoting my album at various fairs and festivals around the United States. I spent time talking with people, and have made many new fans and friends.

Overall, I would describe my music as up-lifting, fun-great for dancing, with a unique sound. As a performer, I love to involve the crowd, and I feel connecting with your audience is very important. High energy, dancing, and crowd involvement are key components in my shows. I truly believe that if you have a dream that you are passionate about, have the drive, and a strong faith you can achieve any goal.